Pittsburgh, PA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Approval needed
- Department + City Council resolution
- Covers
- Permanent structures integral to property
- Governing section
- Pittsburgh Code § 416.10
- Lesser category
- Minor encroachments need only Department OK
- Penalty
- Daily fine per Fee Schedule
Summary
Permanent structures built into Pittsburgh's public right-of-way, like steps or stairs integral to a property, need approval from both the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure and a City Council resolution.
No person shall construct or erect an encroachment in any public right-of-way without first obtaining approval from the Department and City Council.
(c) The Director shall establish and administer policies as necessary for the implementation of this Chapter.
(d) City Council must approve an encroachment by adopting a resolution.
(e) The City Clerk shall notify the Director upon City Council's approval of the resolution authorizing the encroachment.
(f) Upon Department and Council approval of an encroachment application and issuance of a permit, the applicant can begin installation work.
(g) The requirements in this Chapter are not retroactive to encroachments approved prior to the effective date of this ordinance [from which this Chapter derives].
Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Code § 416.10 defines an encroachment as a permanent structure fixed in the public right-of-way that is structurally integral to the abutting property and transfers with it on sale. Building one, a retaining wall, entry steps, or an areaway, requires approval from the Department of Mobility and Infrastructure plus a resolution adopted by City Council; the City Clerk then notifies the Director once Council approves. That is a higher bar than a 'minor encroachment' under § 416.09, which needs only Department sign-off, not a Council vote. Installation work may begin only after both approvals and permit issuance.
Violations & Fines
Building without Department and Council approval draws a fine under the Right-of-Way Fee Schedule; each day the unauthorized encroachment continues is a separate offense, enforced by DOMI, PLI, and police (§ 416.23).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need City Council approval to build into a Pittsburgh sidewalk?
What's the difference between an encroachment and a minor encroachment?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pittsburgh
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